WILL ORTON INKS HYBRID TUNE DEAL

Will Orton will make his debut in the Vertu Motors MINI CHALLENGE this season after signing a deal with defending champions Hybrid Tune.

Orton makes the move into the premier JCW class having spent the past two seasons racing in the Ginetta GT5 Challenge, where he secured fourth in the championship standings.

Prior to that, the youngster competed in the Fiesta Junior Championship, where he took the rookie title and finished second overall back in 2020.

Orton joins the team that carried Sam Weller to the title last year, with a four-car programme set to once again appear on track during the 2023 campaign.

Ryan Faulconbridge had already announced a move over from the departing LUX Motorsport team, whilst Joe Tanner and Sam Smith will both return – the latter having taken a maiden win in the final race of the 2022 season at Brands Hatch.

“I’m delighted to announce that this season, I will be racing in the MINI CHALLENGE UK with reigning champions Hybrid Tune,” he said.

“After a handful of strong winter test days, I am feeling confident ahead of my debut in the championship this weekend at Donington Park.

“I’d like to take the time to say a massive thank you to all of my family, sponsors and supporters for making this happen and I’m looking forward to getting this season started.”